Anyone who pokes fun at or gets mad at you for sticking to your boundaries isn’t a true friend.
It’s perfectly okay to attend social functions and bond with your peers without drinking, smoking or doing anything else that makes you uncomfortable. A simple, “No, thanks, I’m not interested,” politely shuts down offers on the spot and accurately represents how you feel.
You should be proud of honoring and staying true to yourself. A lot of other kids your age would give in to the peer pressure despite how they feel deep down. It’s not always easy, but it’s the right choice to make.DEAR ANNIE: “Torn Between Passion and Stability” reminds me of my own story. As a college freshman, I studied accounting, which seemed the destiny of many young men like me. I found it boring and totally uninspiring.
During the summer after freshman year, I talked with the guard at the entrance to the food warehouse where I had a summer job. He was an elementary school principal who was working for the summer at the warehouse. We talked, and I thought about how much I loved elementary school as a child. I returned to college and changed my major field of study to a path leading to licensure to teach in elementary schools. I was delighted with the course of study and after graduation embarked on a long and thoroughly joyful career. I am now retired but reflect daily on the happiness I experienced and the beautiful memories of a career filled with human interaction and the rewards that come with helping others to have a more fulfilling life.
DEAR FOLLOW THE JOYFUL PATH: What a beautiful letter. I’m sure you have created many beautiful memories for your students over the years as well.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Dear Abby: Man grieves for his sister and his significant other feels snubbedI understand grieving. But am I supposed to just wait until he feels like talking or being bothered with me, for however long it takes?
Read more »
Newly hatched penguin chick Shedd Aquarium’s first in 8 yearsThe chick from rockhopper penguins Edward and Annie hatched in June.
Read more »
Dear Abby: My wife gained weight, can I tell her?Dear Abby mediates a marital dispute and counsels a woman on handling her boyfriend’s grief.
Read more »
Dear Abby: If she calls me dowdy, can I point out she’s fat?My wife doesn’t like the way I dress and berates me in front of family.
Read more »
Dear Abby: Boyfriend started ghosting me after his sister diedI’m trying to be understanding, but for someone to just cut you off and not even acknowledge you is awful.
Read more »
Dear Abby: My controlling sister-in-law makes holidays a living hellDear Abby advises someone on how to deal with a controlling in-law and counsels a nurse on what to do with negative friends.
Read more »